Why Restaurant.com is a great deal

If you go to Restaurant.com you'll see more than 20 Twin Cities eateries with discounts. Most of the discounts are about 50 percent but here's the kicker: Use the discount code TASTE when you're checking out for the extra discount and hit "apply."

Readers always ask how I get the code. It's available by email if you sign up for the alerts. After using quite a few coupons, I've learned a few things. You always have to spend more than the coupon is worth to qualify--usually $35 or so if the coupon is $25 (but you only paid $3 or so for it). Drinks are often excluded in the tab total. Many of the coupons are worth $25, which means you'll get the most bang for your buck with just you plus one. Look carefully for exclusions such as "not valid on Saturdays" or "not valid for lunch." The exclusions are listed online and can be checked before you buy. The certs are good for one year from the date of issue. There are no mailing costs since the certs are printed from your computer.

If you like the discounts available at TCOriginals.com (about 30 percent at local, indie restaurants), the next sale is Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. Be sure to sign on at the opening or you'll be shut out by even 10:20. Mark it on your calendar.